Mad River Glen and Sugarbush Resort will host an epic kickoff party to celebrate the 2012/2013 ski and ride season at the Big Picture Theater and Café on Saturday, November 17, starting at 5 p.m.

The party includes a freestyle exhibition from Mad River Glen and Sugarbush freestyle teams, a premiere of Meathead's new film, No Matter What, a presentation from winter sports nonprofits Flyin’ Ryan Hawks Foundation and High Fives, and concludes with a concert featuring local rock group The Big Basin Band.

There will be season passes to both resorts raffled off, libation specials, a chili bar, Cabot Cheese samples and much more all free and open to the public. Visit the Big Picture website, www.bigpicturetheater.info, for a list of events or find the event on Facebook.

Flyin' Ryan Hawks Foundation is a nonprofit inspired by the life of Ryan Hawks, an extreme skier who passed away from injuries sustained during a free-skiing world tour.

High Fives is a nonprofit dedicated to raising money and awareness for athletes who have suffered a life-altering injury while pursuing their winter action sports dream.